β-substituted polyfluoropropionate salts and derivatives

ABSTRACT

β-substituted polyfluoropropionate salts, derivatives and copolymers and processes for the preparation thereof.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a division of U.S. Ser. No. 641,578 filed on Aug. 16, 1984, now abandoned which is a division of application U.S. Ser. No. 380,016, filed on May 20, 1982, now U.S. Pat. No. 4,474,700, which is a continuation-in-part of application U.S. Ser. No. 280,133, filed on July 2, 1981, now abandoned.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to β-substituted polyfluoropropionate salts and derivatives thereof, including copolymers.

It is known that various polyfluorinated propionates can be prepared from polyfluorinated olefins. For example, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 2,802,028, CF₂ ═CXY can be reacted with water and an alkali metal cyanide to yield a polyfluoramide and a polyfluoropropionate having the formula HCXYCF₂ CO₂ M, wherein, in both formulae, X is --F or --Cl, Y is --H, --F, --Cl, alkyl, cycloalkyl or alkyl substituted with F or Cl and M is an alkali metal. In this patent, the polyfluoronitrile HCXYCF₂ CN, where X and Y are as above, is identified as a probable intermediate.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,311,657 discloses the reaction of fluoroolefins such as tetrafluoroethylene or chlorotrifluoroethylene with CO₂ and an alkali metal fluoride to give CF₃ CX'Y'CO₂ M wherein X' can be --F and Y' is --Cl, --F or trifluoromethyl.

Kalb et al., in Adv. Chem. Series Amer. Chem. Soc. 129, 13 (1973), disclose the reaction of tetrafluoroethylene with CO₂ and potassium pentafluorophenoxide to yield (C₆ F₅)OCF₂ CF₂ CO₂ K.

Japanese Kokai No. 71 10532 discloses the preparation of various unfluorinated quaternary ammonium salts by reacting carboxylic esters with tertiary amines in the presence of phenols.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,535,351 discloses compounds of the formula NC(CF₂)_(a) CO₂ R wherein R is alkyl or aralkyl having 1-25 carbon atoms and a is 1-12. The conversion of the ω-cyanoperfluorinated alkanoate to NC(CF₂)_(a) CO₂ R' wherein R' is polyhaloalkyl is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,532,725.

Known polyfluoropropionate derivatives include CN(CF₂)_(a) COX", wherein X" is --Cl, --F, --Br or --I and a is 1-12 which, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,557,165, can be prepared from the polyhaloalkyl cyanoperfluorinated alkanoate described above. Banks, in "Fluorocarbons and Their Derivatives", Elsevier, p. 23 (1970) discloses the reaction of tetrafluoroethylene with alcohols, phenols, thiols, thiophenols and ketoximes in the presence of their sodium salts to yield 1:1 adducts thereof.

GB No. 2,051,831 A discloses substituted fluorocarbons having the formula X(CF₂)_(n) Y wherein X can be, e.g., a thioalkyl or thioester group and Y can be, e.g., a halide, ##STR1##

U.S. Pat. No. 4,275,226 discloses fluorocarbons having the formula XR_(F) CF₂ OCF═CF₂

wherein

X is --H, --Cl, --Br, --F, --CONRR', --COF, --CO₂ R, --SO₂ F or --PO(OR)₂ ;

R is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl;

R' is --H or C₁₋₁₀ alkyl; and,

R_(F) is a C₁₋₂₀ bifunctional

perfluoro-containing group which can have one or more ether bonds. The compounds are stated to be prepared by heating the iodide, XR_(F) CF₂ OCF₂ CF₂ I, in the presence of certain metals or organometallic compounds. The iodide is stated to be prepared from the acid fluoride, XR_(F) COF, by reaction with tetrafluoroethylene, iodine and a metal halide. However, the patent fails to teach or suggest how to make various of the starting acid fluorides including those wherein X is PO(OR)₂. Consequently, the patent also fails in its disclosure of how to make the corresponding vinyl ether(s).

Warnell, U.S. Pat. No. 3,311,658, discloses I(CF₂)_(n) COF, wherein n is 0-5, and hexafluoropropene adducts thereof, I(CF₂)_(n) --CF₂ OCF(CF₃)--_(n) COF, wherein n is 0-5, and notes that the adduct can be converted to a vinyl ether-containing iodo compound.

Kato et al., in J. Chem. Soc. Chem. Communications, 1173 (1981), discloses the reaction R_(F) I→R_(F) P(O)(OC₂ H₅)₂ wherein R_(F) is C₁₋₆ perfluoroalkyl.

In Japan Kokai No. 81 51,495, to Asahi Glass Co. Ltd., is disclosed the reaction

    F.sub.2 CClCFClO(CF.sub.2).sub.3 I→F.sub.2 CClCFClO(CF.sub.2).sub.2 P(O)(OC.sub.2 H.sub.5).sub.2

Kato, at the Fifth Winter Fluorine Conference, Daytona Beach, Fla., February 1981, disclosed the reaction disclosed in Kokai No. 81 51,495 and conversion of that product to the vinyl ether-containing phosphonate, CF₂ ═CFO(CF₂)₃ P(O)(OC₂ H₅)₂ and that the phosphonate can be converted to the phosphonyl chloride or the methyl phosphonate ester, which have the formula CF₂ ═CFO(CF₂)₃ P(O)Cl₂ and CF₂ ═CFO(CF₂)₃ P(O)(OCH₃)₂, respectively.

Ezzell et al., European Patent Application No. 41,736, disclose compounds having the formula

    Y'(CF.sub.2 --.sub.a (CFR.sub.F --.sub.b C(O)R.sub.F '

wherein

Y', as stated, can be --SO₂ Z', --C(O)Z', or --P(O)Z'₂ ;

Z' is --OH, --OM, --OR, --F, --Br, --Cl or --I;

R is alkyl;

M is alkali metal or quaternary ammonium;

a and b are 0 or an integer; and,

R_(F) and R_(F) ' are --F, --Cl, --CF₃ or --CF₂ Cl.

The reference does not teach or suggest how to prepare the compound wherein Y' is --PO(OR)₂, --P(O)Cl₂ or --P(O)F₂.

European patent application No. 41,736 also discloses a derivative having the formula ##STR2## wherein X" is --F, --Cl or --Br;

X"' is --Cl or --Br; and

n is at least one.

Ezzell et al., European patent application No. 41,738 disclose a compound which is similar to the above derivative and has the formula ##STR3## wherein R_(F) "' and R_(F) "" are --F, --Cl, perfluoroalkyl or fluorochloroalkyl;

X is --Cl, --I or --Br; and,

a and b are 0 to 3 provided that a+b=2 or 3.

Ezzell et al., European patent application Nos. 41,737 and 41,735 disclose vinyl ethers which are derived from the derivative of No. 41,736 and have the formula ##STR4## and copolymers derived therefrom. As in the other references by Ezzell et al., a procedure for preparing the compounds wherein Y' is --PO(OR)₂, --P(O)Cl₂ or --P(O)F₂ is not taught or suggested.

Korach et al., U.S. Pat. No. 3,853,720, disclose fluoropolymers, containing pendant acid groups, having ion exchange properties and being useful as diaphragm materials in electrolysis cells.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention resides in the process for preparing a β-substituted polyfluorinated propionate salt in which process a polyfluoroolefin having the formula CF₂ ═CFY is mixed and reacted with MX_(n) and CO₂ in a polar aprotic solvent at a temperature of about -20° C. to 150° C., wherein said formulae:

X is --CN, --N₃, --SR, or --PO(OR')₂ ;

R is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or aryl or alkaryl having no more than 10 carbon atoms;

R' is --CH₃, --C₂ H₅, --CH₂ CF₃ or --CH₂ CF₂ CF₂ H;

Y is --Cl, --F, --Br or --OR_(F), except that when X is --CN, Y is --Cl, --F or --Br;

R_(F) is perfluoroalkyl, branched or linear, having 1-10 carbon atoms or such perfluoroalkyl having one or more carbon-carbon links interrupted by ether oxygen;

M is alkali metal, alkaline earth metal or quaternary ammonium, --NR¹ R² R³ R⁴, wherein R¹ -R⁴ are, independently, C₁₋₆ linear alkyl, allyl or benzyl; preferably R¹ -R⁴ are methyl; and

n is the valence of M and is 1 or 2.

The invention also resides in the β-substituted polyfluoropropionate salt which is prepared by the above-described process, and certain derivatives thereof; in processes for preparing derivatives; in a copolymer which is prepared from said derivatives; in a process for preparing a cyano-substituted fluorinated copolymer; and in molded objects of such copolymers, e.g., films. The β-substituted polyfluoropropionate salt has the formula:

    (XCF.sub.2 CFYCO.sub.2).sub.n M

where X is --CN, --N₃, --PO(OR')₂, --SR or --SO₂ R, and Y, M and n are as defined above. The sulfone is derived from the thioether by oxidation, e.g., with hydrogen peroxide in the presence of acetic acid as described by Ward in J. Org. Chem. 30, 3009 (1965) and in Example 23.

The derivatives of the β-substituted polyfluoropropionate salt are substituted fluorocarbons which have the formula:

    X'CF.sub.2 CFYZ

wherein

X' is --N₃, --SR, --SO₂ R, --PO(OR')₂, --P(O)Cl₂ or --P(O)F₂ ;

R, R' and Y are as defined above;

Z is --COCl, --CO₂ R", --CO₂ H, ##STR5## R" is C₁₋₆ linear alkyl, allyl or benzyl; and m is 0 or 1-6; p is 1-6; and q is 0 or 1-5, provided that when Z is the CO₂ M-containing group,

X' is --N₃, --SR, --SO₂ R, or --P(O)(OR')₂.

The copolymer of the invention contains repeat units which have the following formula: ##STR6## wherein Q is ##STR7## wherein Y' is --F or --H;

Y" is --F, --H, --Cl, --R_(F) ' or --OR_(F) ';

R_(F) ' is perfluoroalkyl having 1-4 carbon atoms;

s is about 2 to 1000, preferably about 10 to 200; and

Y, X', q and m are as defined above; q and m are preferably 0 or 1.

Molded objects of the copolymer include films. When X' is --PO(OR')₂, --P(O)Cl₂, --P(O)F₂, --SR, or --SO₂ R, the films are chemically convertible to ion-exchange membranes.

In the process of preparing the salt of the invention, the reactants can be mixed in any order. Preferably, the reactants are mixed in the solvent at a low temperature, e.g., less than about -20° C., after which the mixture is heated to the reaction temperature of about -20° C. to 150° C., preferably about 0° C. to 100° C. By way of further example, CO₂ can be added to a mixture of MX_(n) and solvent, followed by the introduction of the fluoroolefin at the reaction temperature, or, a mixture of MX_(n) and solvent can be added to a mixture of CO₂ and the fluoroolefin at the reaction temperature. Reaction pressure is not critical. Preferably, the reaction pressure is about 100 psi to 2000 psi (690 kPa-13,800 kPa).

Suitable solvents include, for example, dimethyl sulfoxide, acetonitrile, glymes such as mono-, di-, tri- and tetraethyleneglycol dimethyl ether, polyethylene oxide diethyl ethers, tetrahydrofuran, tetramethylene sulfone, dimethyl formamide, hexamethyl phosphoramide, tetraalkyl ureas and mixtures of the above.

The relative amounts of the reactants are not critical. Typically, the number of moles of CO₂ is greater than the number of moles of MX_(n). The number of moles of the fluoroolefin is typically about the same as that of MX_(n), although the fluoroolefin can be employed advantageously in mole ratios from about 1/2 to 4/1, relative to MX_(n).

The β-substituted polyfluorinated propionate salt of the invention can be collected in crude form after the reaction is terminated by removal of the solvent at low pressure. However, the salt can also be converted to an ester which can be isolated by, e.g., distillation or washing with water. Conversion to the ester can be carried out by treating the reaction mixture with an alkylating agent such as methyl bromide, allyl bromide, ethyl iodide, dimethyl sulfate, methyl fluorosulfate or methyl p-toluenesulfonate.

The quaternary ammonium propionate salt of the invention, that is, the salt wherein M is --NR¹ R² R³ R⁴, can also be prepared from esters of other propionate salts of the invention, said esters having the formula XCF₂ CFYCO₂ R⁴ wherein X is --N₃, --SR, --SO₂ R or --CN and Y, R and R⁴ are as defined above, by reacting such an ester with an appropriate tertiary amine of the formula NR¹ R² R³. Preparation of the quaternary ammonium propionate salt from a cyanoester, as described in Example 13A, is unexpected due to the tendency of nucleophiles to attack cyanoesters nonselectively.

DETAILS OF THE INVENTION

The derivatives of the invention can be prepared by various procedures. For example, the derivative ester, X'CF₂ CFYZ, wherein Z is --CO₂ R", can be prepared by treating the salt, in or apart from the reaction mixture, with an alkylating agent as described above.

The derivative wherein Z is --COCl or --COF (i.e., ##STR8## wherein m is 0) can be prepared by treating the propionate salt of the invention with a chlorinating agent such as thionyl chloride or phosphorous pentachloride to form the acyl chloride which can be reacted with an appropriate fluoride salt, e.g., NaF, to form the acyl fluoride. The acyl fluoride can also be prepared by treating the propionate salt, preferably a quaternary ammonium propionate salt, with perfluoroallyl fluorosulfate, SF₄ or COF₂. The acyl halide wherein X' is --CN, and which therefore is not encompassed by the invention, can also be prepared by these procedures; if cyano group involvement occurs, the procedure described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,557,165 can be employed after converting the propionate salt to an ester.

The acyl fluoride can be converted to the derivative wherein Z is ##STR9## and m is 1 to 6 by reacting the acyl fluoride with hexafluoropropene oxide in the presence of fluoride ions as described, e.g., in U.S. Pat. No. 4,131,740. This derivative wherein X' is --N₃, --SR or --SO₂ R, as well as the related cyano-functional derivative not of the invention, can also be prepared directly from the corresponding quarternary ammonium salt of the invention wherein X is --N₃, --SR, --SO₂ R or --CN by reacting said salt with carbonyl fluoride followed by hexafluoropropene oxide. The quaternary ammonium salt optionally can be prepared in situ by reacting a fluoroester with a tertiary amine as described above. The derivative wherein Z is the fluorinated vinyl ether-containing group ##STR10## can be prepared by pyrolyzing the derivative wherein Z is ##STR11## and m is at least one and preferably at least two, in an aprotic solvent in the presence of a carbonate, phosphate, sulfite or sulfate salt of an alkali or alkaline earth metal, preferably sodium carbonate or trisodium phosphate.

The derivative wherein Z is the above fluorinated vinyl ether-containing group can also be prepared by pyrolyzing the derivative wherein Z is ##STR12## in the absence of solvent or added salts, as described below in Example 21. The latter derivative is prepared by alkaline hydrolysis of the corresponding acyl fluoride. By either method, a ##STR13## group is lost. Hence, m must be at least one and q is one less than m or p. When pyrolyzing a derivative of the invention in which X' is --PO(OR')₂, R' is preferably --CH₂ CF₃. Copolymers prepared from the vinyl ether-containing compound wherein q is at least one are preferred for use as ion-exchange membranes.

The derivative wherein Z is the fluorinated allyl ether-containing group ##STR14## can be prepared by reacting the derivative wherein Z is ##STR15## with perfluoroallylfluorosulfate or perfluoroallylchloride in the presence of fluoride ions as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,273,728, 4,273,729 and 4,275,225.

The derivative wherein Z is the above fluorinated allyl ether-containing group and m is 0, as well as the related cyano-functional fluorinated allyl ether, i.e., wherein X' is --CN (not of the invention), can also be prepared directly from the quaternary ammonium propionate salt of the invention wherein X is --N₃, --SR, --SO₂ R, --PO(OR')₂ or --CN by reacting the salt with perfluoroallylfluorosulfate as described in Example 13B, or, preferably, by reacting said quaternary ammonium propionate with carbonyl fluoride followed by perfluoroallylfluorosulfate as described in Examples 14 and 16. The quaternary ammonium salt optionally can be prepared in situ by reacting a fluoroester with a tertiary amine as described above.

The derivatives of the invention wherein Z is the above fluorinated vinyl or allyl ether-containing group, as well as the related cyano-functional fluorinated vinyl or allyl ether, i.e., wherein X' is --CN and which are not of the invention, are copolymerizable with fluoroolefins such as tetrafluoroethylene, chlorotrifluoroethylene, vinylidene fluoride, or mixtures thereof with hexafluoropropene or perfluoroalkyl vinyl ether such as CF₂ ═CFOR'_(F) wherein R'_(F) is perfluoroalkyl having 1-4 carbon atoms, as described below in Example 15 and in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,273,728, 4,273,729 and 4,275,225.

The derivatives of the invention wherein X' is --P(O)Cl₂ can be prepared by the process of the invention wherein MX_(n) is M[PO(OR')₂ ]_(n) and treatment of the resulting salt with phosphorous pentachloride as described in Example 19. The derivative wherein X' is --P(O)F₂ can be prepared from the phosphonyl chloride by treatment with a fluoride salt such as NaF.

The propionate salts and derivatives of the invention are useful as intermediates to tetrafluorosuccinic acid, perfluorobutyrolactone and fluorinated functional allyl and vinyl ethers which provide cure-sites or ion-exchange groups in fluorinated polymers. The latter include copolymers of the invention which are moldable into shaped articles such as ion-exchange membranes, films and the like. The copolymers of the invention have pendant functional groups, X', which confer special utility. Copolymers having pendant groups --PO(OR')₂, --P(O)Cl₂, --P(O)F₂, --SR or --SO₂ R have ion-exchange properties after hydrolysis, the latter two groups requiring prior conversion to sulfonates or carboxylates as described by Ward in J. Org. Chem. 30, 3009 (1965). Use of fluoropolymers containing a pendant --PO(OR')₂, --P(O)Cl₂, sulfonate or carboxylate group as electrolysis cell diaphragm materials is disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,164,463 and 3,853,720. Use of fluoropolymers containing pendant sulfonate or carboxylate groups as ion-exchange membranes is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,176,215.

Copolymers having pendant azido groups can be converted into chemically stable, structural foams by heating to a temperature at which N₂ is released, said gas serving as a blowing agent. Such copolymers can also be converted to useful cyano-containing copolymers by reaction of the pendant --CF₂ N₃ groups with a tertiary phosphine such as triphenylphosphine.

Cyano-substituted copolymers, that is, copolymers wherein X' is --CN and which therefore are not copolymers of the invention, can be prepared from the vinyl or allyl ether-derived copolymer having a pendant nitrile group, that is, the copolymer wherein wherein Q is ##STR16## and X' is --N₃, by reacting the copolymer with a tertiary phosphine as illustrated below in Example 13D. The cyano-substituents provide cure sites for such copolymers, permitting their conversion to fluoroelastomers as described in European Patent Application No. 11,853. Useful perfluoroalkylenetriazine polymers are also derivable from cyano-functional propionate salts after conversion to the methyl esters, as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,532,725 and 3,557,165. Pendant cyano groups can also be hydrolyzed by known methods to carboxyl and carboxyl salt groups, i.e., --CO₂ H and --CO₂ ⁻ M⁺, respectively, thus providing copolymers with ion-exchange properties.

Other fluoropolymers can be prepared indirectly from the propionate salt of the invention. For example, when X is --CN and Y is --F, the salt can be hydrolyzed with aqueous acid or aqueous alkali to tetrafluorosuccinic acid which can be further reacted with carbonyl fluoride, under the conditions described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,213,062 to yield perfluorobutyrolactone. Perfluorobutyrolactone is a useful intermediate to carboxylated perfluoropolymers as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,127,731.

In the following Examples which are illustrative of the invention, all parts and percentages are by weight and temperatures are in °C. unless otherwise indicated. Examples 1-7 illustrate preparation of propionate salts of the invention, collected as esters thereof or converted to acids and collected as esters of the acids. Examples 8-11, 14 and 16-17 illustrate preparation of propionate salts of the invention and, except Example 16, conversion thereof to derivatives of the invention. Examples 12-13 illustrate preparation of propionate salts of the invention and conversion thereof to useful compounds not of the invention. Examples 15 and 22 illustrate preparation of copolymers of the invention. Examples 18-21 illustrate preparation of derivatives of the invention.

Preferred embodiments of the invention are illustrated by Examples 4B, 7, 8, 19A, 19C, the combination of Examples 20, 21 and 22 to prepare vinyl ether copolymers and the combination of Examples 16, 14B and 15 such that a tetramethylammonium salt is prepared as described in Example 16, except that the solvent is diglyme, then, in the same reaction vessel, said salt is converted to perfluoro-4-oxa-6-heptenyl azide as described in Example 14B which is copolymerized as described in Example 15 to prepare allyl ether copolymers.

EXAMPLE 1 A. Potassium 3-Cyanotetrafluoropropionate in Dimethyl Formamide and Tetrafluorosuccinic Acid and Esters ##STR17##

A mixture of 26.0 g (0.40 mole) of KCN, 150 ml of dimethyl formamide, 50 g (0.50 mole) of tetrafluoroethylene (TFE), and 50 g of CO₂ was held at 50° for 4 hr., and then at 100° for 4 hr. at a maximum pressure of 1100 psi (7.6×10³ kPa). The resulting mixture was dark and contained no insoluble salts. Volatile compounds were removed from the mixture under reduced pressure leaving a viscous residue of potassium 3-cyanotetrafluoropropionate, which substantially solidified to a deliquescent semisolid when triturated with ether. IR (neat): 2288 (weak covalently bound CN), 1680 (strong CO₂), and 1250-1100 cm⁻¹ (C--F, C--O) with broad H-bonded OH at 3450 and weak saturated CH at 2940 cm⁻¹.

The residue was stirred at 25° for one day with a mixture of 300 ml of water and 110 ml of conc. H₂ SO₄. Continuous extraction with ether for 30 hr. and evaporation of the ether extract gave a residue of crude tetrafluorosuccinic acid which was refluxed with 500 ml of absolute ethanol and 2 ml of conc. HCl for 18 hr. The water/ethanol mixture was distilled off, and the procedure was repeated with 400 ml of absolute ethanol and 5 ml of conc. HCl and again with 500 ml of absolute ethanol and 1 ml of conc. HCl. Distillation resulted in 19.5 g (20% based on KCN) of diethyl tetrafluorosuccinate, bp mostly 77° (7 mm). Identification by IR and ¹⁹ F and ¹ H NMR was confirmed by a treatment with ammonia to form tetrafluorosuccinamide in 82% yield, mp 257°-260° (subl), which was not depressed upon admixture with authentic tetrafluorosuccinamide.

B. Potassium 3-Cyanotetrafluoropropionate in N,N'-Dimethylethyleneurea and Tetrafluorosuccinic Acid and Esters

A 400 ml metal tube charged with 26.0 g (0.40 mole) of KCN, 150 ml of N,N'-dimethylethyleneurea, 50 g (1.1 mole) of CO₂, and 50 g of (0.50 mole) of tetrafluoroethylene was shaken at 50° for 4 hr. and then at 100° for 4 hr. Solvent, bp 40°-43° (0.1 mm, 1.3×10⁻² kPa), was distilled from the dark reaction mixture, and a partially crystalline residue of potassium 3-cyanotetrafluoropropionate was extracted twice with ether.

The residue was stirred at 60° for 3 days with 300 ml of H₂ O and 200 ml of conc. H₂ SO₄. Continuous extraction of the resulting mixture with ether and evaporation of the extracts afforded crude tetrafluorosuccinic acid, which was refluxed for a day with 600 ml of absolute ethanol and 2 ml of conc. HCl. Distillation of the water/ethanol mixture was followed by addition of 500 ml of ethanol and 1 ml of conc. HCl. Slow distillation of solvent and fractionation of high boiling point componds gave 12.9 g (13%) of diethyl tetrafluorosuccinate, bp 63°-67° (5 mm, 6.5×10⁻¹ kPa) identified by IR analysis.

EXAMPLE 2 Tetraethylammonium 3-Cyanotetrafluoropropionate in Acetonitrile and Tetrafluorosuccinic Acid and Esters

    (C.sub.2 H.sub.5).sub.4 NCN+CF.sub.2 ═CF.sub.2 +CO.sub.2 .increment.NCCF.sub.2 CF.sub.2 CO.sub.2.sup.- N.sup.+ (C.sub.2 H.sub.5).sub.4

A 400 ml tube charged with 52.1 g (0.33 mole) of tetraethylammonium cyanide, 150 ml of acetonitrile, 50 g (1.1 mole) of CO₂, and 50 g (0.50 mole) of tetrafluoroethylene was agitated at 50° for 4 hr. and then at 100° for 4 hr. The liquid reaction mixture was evaporated to give 96 g of residual viscous oil and solid tetraethylammonium 3-cyanotetrafluoropropionate.

A 48 g sample of the crude product was hydrolyzed at 70° with aqueous H₂ SO₄. Tetrafluorosuccinic acid was extracted with ether and esterified with ethanol/HCl to give 16.6 g (41%) of diethyl tetrafluorosuccinate, bp 68°-70° (5 mm, 6.5×10⁻¹ kPa), identified by IR analysis.

EXAMPLE 3 Tetraethylammonium 3-Cyanotetrafluoropropionate in Acetonitrile and Methyl 3-Cyanotetrafluoropropionate ##STR18##

A 400 ml metal tube charged with 62.4 g of (0.40 mole) of tetraethylammonium cyanide, 150 ml of acetonitrile, 33 g (0.75 mole) of CO₂ and 40 g (0.40 mole) of tetrafluoroethylene (TFE) was agitated at 100° for 8 hr. The pressure was maintained at 300 psi (2.1×10³ kPa) throughout. Evaporation of volatiles gave 110 g of a dark solid containing tetraethylammonium 3-cyanotetrafluoropropionate.

The solid was treated with 300 ml of diethyl ether and 45.6 g (0.40 mole) of methyl fluorosulfate. After 3 days the mixture was filtered, and most of the ether distilled off. The product was transferred to a cold trap at 5 mm (6.5×10⁻¹ kPa) and then fractionated to give 34.4 g (46%) of methyl 3-cyanotetrafluoropropionate, bp 95°-98°, identified by comparision of its IR spectrum with that of authentic methyl 3-cyanotetrafluoropropionate.

EXAMPLE 4 A. Sodium 3-Cyanotetrafluoropropionate in Dimethyl Sulfoxide and Methyl 3-Cyanotetrafluoropropionate

A mixture of 19.6 g (0.40 mole) of NaCN, 33 g (0.75 mole) of CO₂, and 50 g (0.50 mole) of TFE in 150 ml of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) was maintained at 100° for 1 hr. at about 700 psi (4.8×10³ kPa) to yield a dark liquid mixture which contained sodium 3-cyanotetrafluoropropionate.

The resulting mixture was stirred with 63 g (0.50 mole) of dimethyl sulfate until an initial mild exothermic reaction subsided, and then was heated at 60° for 1 hr. Volatile compounds in the mixture were removed by warming the mixture to 64° (5 mm, 6.5×10⁻¹ kPa). The volatilies were fractionated to give 43.1 g (58% based on NaCN) of methyl 3-cyanotetrafluoropropionate, bp 90°-96°, identified by IR.

B. Sodium 3-Cyanotetrafluoropropionate in DMSO at 25° and Methyl 3-Cyanotetrafluoropropionate

A mixture of 24.5 g (0.50 mole) of NaCN, 33 g (0.75 mole) of CO₂, and 50 g (0.50 mole) of TFE in 150 ml of DMSO was maintained at 17°-25° for more than about 19 hr. while the pressure was allowed to drop from 600 to 250 psi (4.1×10³ to 1.7×10³ kPa).

After being maintained at about 25° for 2 more days, the reaction mixture, which contained sodium 3-cyanotetrafluoropropionate, was treated with 69.3 g (0.55 mole) of dimethyl sulfate, stirred, and allowed to stand overnight. Fractionation of the volatile products gave 53.3 g (58%) of methyl 3-cyanotetrafluoropropionate, bp 90°-97°.

C. Sodium 3-Cyanotetrafluoropropionate in Tetraglyme and Methyl 3-Cyanotetrafluoropropionate

A mixture of 24.5 g (0.50 mole) of NaCN, 33 g (0.75 mole) of CO₂, and 50 g (0.50 mole) of TFE in 150 ml of tetraglyme was maintained at 100° for 8 hr. at about 1330 to 1100 psi (9.2×10³ to 7.6×10³ kPa) to give sodium 3-cyanotetrafluoropropionate.

Methylation of the product was 63.0 g (0.50 mole) of dimethyl sulfate yielded 35.8 g (39%) of methyl 3-cyanotetrafluoropropionate, bp 90°-96°, identified by IR.

EXAMPLE 5 Sodium 3-Cyanotetrafluoropropionate and Allyl 3-Cyanotetrafluoropropionate

The reaction of Example 4A to yield sodium 3-cyanotetrafluoropropionate was repeated and the reaction mixture was stirred with 48.4 g (0.40 mole) of allyl bromide for 2 hr. Volatile products were removed at 50° (5 mm, 6.7×10⁻¹ kPa) and fractionated to yield 29.9 g (35%) of allyl 3-cyanotetrafluoropropionate, bp 55° (50 mm, 6.7 kPa). IR (CCl₄): 3090 (unsaturated CH), 2960 and 2860 (saturated CH), 2260 (CN), 1785 (C═O), 1650 (C═C), and 1200-1100 cm⁻¹ (CF, C--O). NMR (CCl₄): ¹ H 5.6 (2^(nd) order m, 3H═CH) and 4.92 ppm (d, J_(HH) 5.4 Hz, 2H, CH₂); ¹⁹ F-107.5 (t, J_(FF) 5.8 Hz, 2F, CF₂ CN) and -119.5 ppm (t, J_(FF) 5.8 Hz, 2F, CF₂ C═O).

Anal. Calcd. for C₇ H₅ F₄ NO₂ : C, 39.82; H, 2.39, N, 6.64. Found: C, 39.92; H, 2.49; N, 6.75.

EXAMPLE 6 Calcium 3-Cyanotetrafluoropropionate and Methyl 3-Cyanotetrafluoropropionate

A 400 ml metal tube charged with 23.0 g (0.25 mole) of Ca(CN)₂, 150 ml of DMSO, 33 g (0.75 mole) of CO₂ and 50 g (0.50 mole) of TFE was shaken at 50° for 6 hr. and at 100° for 4 hr. give calcium 3-cyanotetrafluoropropionate.

The reaction mixture was then stirred with 69.3 g (0.55 mole) of dimethyl sulfate until an initial exothermic reaction subsided. Removal of volatiles under reduced pressure and distillation of the volatiles gave 14.6 g (16%) of methyl 3-cyanotetrafluoropropionate, bp 90°-97°.

EXAMPLE 7 Sodium 2-Chloro-3-cyanotrifluoropropionate and Methyl 2-Chloro-3-cyanotrifluoropropionate ##STR19##

A reaction mixture of 24.5 g (0.50 mole) of NaCN, 33 g (0.75 mole) of CO₂, 58 g (0.50 mole) of chlorotrifluoroethylene, and 150 ml of DMSO was reacted in a 400 ml metal tube while warming from below 0°. The pressure went from 290 psi (2.0×10³ kPa) at 4° to 220 psi (1.5×10³ kPa) at 24° over a period of 20 hr., resulting in a mixture which contained sodium 2-chloro-3-cyanotrifluoropropionate.

Dimethyl sulfate (69.3 g, 0.55 mole) was added dropwise, and the resulting mixture was stirred for 3 hr. while the temperature was maintained in a cooling bath at less than 30°. Removal of volatiles under reduced pressure and fractionation yielded 64.9 g (64%) of methyl 2-chloro-3-cyanotrifluoropropionate, bp 57°-58° (50 mm, 6.7 kPa). IR (CCl₄): 3020, 2960, and 2950 (sat'd CH), 2250 (CN), 1770 (C═O), and 1100-1250 cm⁻¹ (CF, CO). NMR (CCl₄): ¹ H 3.95 ppm (s, OCH₃): ¹⁹ F-132.9 ppm (t, J_(FF) 13.6 Hz, 1F⁴, CF) and AB for CF₂ at -9283, -9570, -9633, and -9921 Hz (d, J_(FF) 13.6 Hz 2F).

Anal. Calcd. for C₅ H₃ ClF₃ NO₂ : C, 29.80; H, 1.50; N, 6.95. Found: C, 30.04; H, 1.84; N, 6.96.

EXAMPLE 8 Sodium 3-Azidotetrafluoropropionate and Methyl 3-Azidotetrafluoropropionate ##STR20##

A 400 ml metal tube charged with 26.0 g (0.40 mole) of NaN₃, 33 g (0.75 mole) of CO₂, 50 g (0.50 mole) of TFE and 150 ml of DMSO was heated at 50° for 4 hr. while the pressure was allowed to drop from 730 psi (5.0×10³ kPa) to 520 psi (3.6×10³ kPa), and then at 100° for 2 hr. at about 765-800 psi (5.3×10³ -5.5×10³ kPa), to give sodium 3-azidotetrafluoropropionate.

The reaction mixture was then stirred with 56.7 g (0.45 mole) of dimethyl sulfate until an initial exothermic reaction subsided. Volatiles were removed under reduced pressure and fractionated to give 73.2 g (91%) of methyl 3-azidotetrafluoropropionate, bp 54° (50 mm, 6.7 kPa). IR (CCl₄); 3010, 2960, and 2855 (sat'd CH); 2160 (N₃), 1785 (C═O) and 1100-1300 cm⁻¹ (CF, C--O). NMR (CCl₄): ¹ H 3.99 ppm (s, OCH₃); ¹⁹ F-91.7 (t, J_(FF) 4.7 Hz, 2F, CF₂ N₃) and -120.5 ppm (t, J_(FF) 4.7 Hz, 2F, CF₂ C═O).

Anal. Calcd. for C₄ H₃ F₄ N₃ O₂ : C, 23.89, H, 1.50; N, 20.90. Found: C, 24.27; H, 1.71; N, 21.31.

EXAMPLE 9 Sodium 3-Azido-2-trifluoromethoxytrifluoropropionate and Methyl 3-Azido-2-trifluoromethoxytrifluoropropionate ##STR21##

A mixture of 32.5 g (0.50 mole) of NaN₃, 33 g (0.75 mole) of CO₂, 83 g (0.50 mole) of trifluoromethyl trifluorovinyl ether, and 150 ml of dimethyl sulfoxide was reacted at 25°-27° and 380-280 psi (2.6×10³ -1.9×10³ kPa) for 10 hr.

The resulting solution, which contained sodium 3-azido-2-trifluoromethoxytrifluoropropionate, was stirred with 69.3 g (0.55 mole) of dimethyl sulfate for 3 hr. until an initial exothermic reaction subsided. Volatiles were removed at 50° (2 mm, 2.6×10⁻¹ kPa), and the resulting crude ester was fractionated to yield 111.8 g (84%) of methyl 3-azido-2-trifluoromethoxytrifluoropropionate, bp 38°-41° (24 mm, 2.1 kPa). IR (CCl₄): 3010, 2960, and 2850 (sat'd CH); 2150 (N₃), 1780 (C═O), and 1100-1250 cm⁻¹ (C-F). NMR (CCl₄): ¹ H 3.89 ppm (s, OCH₃); ¹⁹ F-56.0 (d, J_(FF) 8.6 Hz, 3F, OCF₃) and -131.6 ppm (q of t, J_(FF) 8.6, 5 Hz, 1F, CF) with an AB for CF₂ N₃ at -8333 and -8521 Hz (d, J_(FF) 5.0 Hz, 1F) and -8548 and -8763 Hz (d, J_(FF) 5.6 Hz, 1F).

Anal. Calcd. for C₅ H₃ F₆ N₃ O₃ : C, 22.49; H, 1.13; N, 15.73. Found: C, 22.81; H, 1.48; N, 16.00.

EXAMPLE 10 Sodium 3-Azido-2-heptafluoro-n-propoxytrifluoropropionate and Methyl 3-Azido-2-heptafluoro-n-propoxytrifluoropropionate ##STR22##

A reaction mixture of 26.0 g (0.40 mole) of NaN₃, 33 g (0.75 mole) of CO₂, 106 g (0.40 mole) of heptafluoro-n-propyltrifluorovinyl ether, and 150 ml of DMSO was shaken at 25° for 16 hr. in a 400 ml tube.

The resultant mixture, which contained sodium 3-azido-2-heptafluoro-n-propoxytrifluoropropionate, was treated with 56.7 g (0.45 mole) CH₃ OSO₂ OCH₃, stirred overnight, and then poured into 1.5 liter of cold water. The organic layer was washed with 500 ml of water, dried over CaSO₄, and distilled to yield 115.8 g (79%) of methyl-3-azido-2-heptafluoro-n-propoxy-trifluoropropionate, bp 44°-45° (10 mm, 1.3 kPa). IR (CCl₄); 3010, 2970, and 2850 (sat'd CH), 2150 (N₃), 1780 (C═O), and 1100-1250 cm⁻¹ (CF, C--O). NMR (CCl₄); ¹ H 3.92 ppm (s, OCH₃); ¹⁹ F-82.1 (t, J_(FF) 7.3 Hz, 3F, CF₃), -130.3 (d of d of t, J_(FF) 19.6, 6, 6 Hz, 1F, CF), and -130.4 ppm (s, 2F, CF₂) with AB multiplets for OCF₂ at -7443 and -7592 Hz (d of q, J_(FF) 19.6, 7.3 Hz, 1F) and -8189 and -8340 Hz (q of d, J_(FF) 7.3, 6 Hz, 1F) and for CF₂ N₃ at -8359, -8547, -8567 and -8757 Hz (d, J_(FF) 6 Hz, 2F).

Anal. Calcd. for C₇ H₃ F₁₀ N₃ O₃ : C, 22.90; H, 0.82; N, 11.45. Found: C, 22.45; H, 1.09; N, 11.70.

EXAMPLE 11 Sodium 3-t-Butylthiotetrafluoropropionate and Methyl 3-t-Butylthiotetrafluoropropionate ##STR23##

A suspension of 24 g (0.50 mole) of 50% NaH/mineral oil in 140 ml of DMSO was stirred and maintained at 45° while 45 g (0.50 mole) of t-butyl mercaptan was added dropwise. The thick mixture was then stirred and heated at 45° for about 4.5 hr., until the evolution of hydrogen became extremely slow. The resulting slurry was rinsed into a 400 ml metal tube with 10 ml of DMSO, 0.33 g (0.75 mole) of CO₂ and 50 g (0.50 mole) of TFE were added, and the mixture was agitated at 100° for 8 hr.

The resulting dark solution, which contained sodium 3-t-butylthiotetrafluoropropionate, was stirred with 69.3 g (0.55 mole) of dimethyl sulfate while the temperature was maintained at 30°. After an initial exothermic reaction subsided, the mixture was stirred overnight and then distilled to give a crude product with bp about 45° (2 mm, 2.6×10⁻¹ kPa). The distillate was washed with 1 liter of water, dried and fractionated to give 52.1 g (42%) of methyl 3-t-butylthiotetrafluoropropionate, bp 55° (2 mm, 2.6×10⁻¹ kPa). IR (neat): 2970 (sat'd CH), 1775 (C═O), 1100-1250 cm⁻¹ (CF). NMR (CCl₄): ¹ H 3.87 (s, 3H, OCH₃) and 1.52 ppm (s, 9H, C(CH₃)₃ ; ¹⁹ F-86.3 (t, J_(FF) 7.1 Hz, 2F, CF₂ S) and -117.6 ppm (t, J_(FF) 7.1 Hz, 2F, CF₂ C═O).

Anal. Calcd. for C₈ H₁₂ F₄ O₂ S: C, 38.71; H, 4.87. Found: C, 38.99; H, 5.05.

EXAMPLE 12 Sodium 3-dimethylphosphonotetrafluoropropionate and a Related Salt ##STR24##

To a suspension of 24.0 g (0.50 mole) of 50% 55 g (0.50 mole) of dimethyl phosphite was added NaH/mineral oil in 150 ml of DMSO while the mixture was stirred. A pronounced foaming problem necessitated slow portion-wise additions and a prolonged reaction time after the phosphite addition had been completed. The resulting mixture was heated in a 400 ml tube with 33 g (0.75 mole) of CO₂ and 50 g (0.50 mole) of TFE, first at 50° for 4 hr. and then at 100° for one hr. Removal of solvent from the resulting solution until the residue was at 75° (0.40 mm, 5.3×10⁻² kPa) gave 106 g of material which solidified on standing. IR (neat); 2950, 2920, and 2850 (sat'd CH), 1770 (ester C═O), 1690 and 1440 (CO₂)⁻, 1260 (P═O), and 1000-1200 cm⁻¹ (CF, P--O--C). NMR (DMSO): ¹⁹ F shows a 55:45 mixture; major component -118.9 (t, J_(FF) 4.6 Hz, 2F, CF₂ C═O) and -122.3 ppm (d of t, J_(FP) 71 Hz, J_(FF) 4.6 Hz, 24, CF₂ P) and minor component -118.4 (broad s, 2F, CF₂ C═O) and -123.3 ppm (broad d, J_(FP) 72 Hz, 2F, CF₂ P). The spectra indicate a mixture of (CH₃ O)₂ P(O)CF₂ CF₂ CO₂ ⁻ Na⁺ and ##STR25##

EXAMPLE 13 A. Methyltriethylammonium-3-cyanotetrafluoropropionate ##STR26##

A homogeneous solution of 9.3 g (0.05 mole) of methyl 3-cyanotetrafluoropropionate prepared as in Example 3, and 5.1 g (0.05 mole) of triethylamine in 25 ml of ether was stirred at 25°. After 4 days, a second layer had slowly formed; no increase was observed during an additional 2 days. Removal of volatiles under full pump at 25° gave a deliquescent yellow solid, methyltriethylammonium-3-cyanotetrafluoropropionate, mp 52°-55°. IR (CDCl₃): 2965 (sat'd CH), 2255 (CN), 1690 (CO₂), and 1250-1100 cm⁻¹ (CF). NMR (CDCl₃): ¹ H 3.47 (q, J_(HH) 7.1 Hz, 6H, CH₂ --N, 3.08 (s, 3H, CH₃ --N), and 1.37 ppm (t, J_(HH) 7.1 Hz, of m, 9H, CH₃); ¹⁹ F -108.5 (t, J_(FF) 8.4 Hz, 2F, CF₂ CN) and -119.3 ppm (t, J_(FF) 8.4 Hz, 2F, CF₂ C═O with only 3% of impurities present.

Further proof of structure was obtained from reactions of this material as described below. Subsequent preparations on a 0.2 to 0.34 mole scale gave 92-95% yields of methyltriethylammonium-3-cyanotetrafluoropropionate varying in purity from a slightly moist solid to a half liquid material at 25°.

B. 3-Cyanotetrafluoropropionyl Fluoride and Perfluoro-5-oxa-7-octenenitrile ##STR27##

A solution of 53.9 g (0.2 mole) of methyltriethylammonium-3-cyanotetrafluoropropionate prepared as in Part A in 300 ml of diglyme was stirred at -10° to -5° while 46.0 g (0.20 mole) of perfluoroallyl fluorosulfate was rapidly added. The mixture was then stirred at -10° to -5° for 1 hr., and then at -5° to 0° for 4 hr. Removal of volatiles at 35° (5 mm, 6.7×10⁻¹ kPa) through a liquid N₂ trap and fractionation gave 10.0 g (29%) of 3-cyanotetrafluoropropionyl fluoride, bp 19°-20°. IR (gas phase): 2265 (CN), 1888 (COF), and 1300-1100 cm⁻¹ (CF) with traces of CO₂, SO₂ F₂ and SiF₄ present. NMR (CCl₄ ; 0°); ¹⁹ F 25.8 (t of t, J_(FF) 10.1, 5.0 Hz, 1F, COF), -106.7 (d of t, J_(FF) 5.0, 4.6 Hz, 2F, CF₂ CN), and -118.5 ppm (d of t, J_(FF) 10.1, 4.6 Hz, 2F, CF₂ C═O).

Further fractionation gave 3.9 g of recovered perfluoroallyl fluorosulfate, bp 62°-63°, and 8.0 g (12%) of perfluoro-5-oxa-7-octenenitrile, bp 81°-83°. IR (CCl₄): 2265 (CN), 1790 (C═C), and 1300-1100 cm⁻¹ (CF, C--O). NMR (CCl₄): -71.9 (d of d of t of d, J_(FF) 25.2, 13.9, 11.6, 7.3 Hz, 2F, OCF₂ C═), -83.7 (t of t of m, J_(FF) 11.6, 9, 2F, OCF₂), -91.0 (d of d of t, J_(FF) 50.8, 39.5, 7.3, Hz, 1F, cis-CF₂ CF═CFF), -104.7 (d of d of t, J_(FF) 118.0, 50.8, 25.2 Hz, 1F, trans-CF₂ CF═CFF), -106.4 (t of t of d, J_(FF) 8.8, 4.4., 1.6 Hz, 2F, CF₂ CN), -127.5 (t of t, J_(FF) 4.4, 2.3 Hz, 2F, CF₂), and -190.8 ppm (d of d of t of t, J_(FF) 118.0, 39.5, 13.9, 1.6 Hz, 1F, CF₂ CF═).

Anal. Calcd. for C₇ F₁₁ NO: C, 26.02; N, 4.34. Found: C, 26.36; N, 4.41.

C. Perfluoro-5-oxa-7-octenenitrile with Excess Fluorosulfate

Perfluoroallyl fluorosulfate (92.0 g, 0.40 mole) was added slowly to a mixture of 54.5 g (0.2 mole) of methyltriethylammonium-3-cyanotetrafluoropropionate prepared as in Part A, 11.6 g (0.20 mole) of flame-dried KF, and 300 ml of diglyme stirred at -10° to -5°. The mixture was then stirred at -10° to -5° for 3 hr. and poured into 1.5 liters of ice water. The lower layer was washed with 500 ml of cold water, dried over CaSO₄, and fractionated to give 21.9 g (34% from NCCF₂ CF₂ CO₂ CH₃) of perfluoro-5-oxa-7-octenenitrile, bp 80°-84°, which was determined to be essentially pure by gas chromatography (GC). This example shows that a higher yield of the allyl ether results when an excess of fluorosulfate is used.

D. Perfluoro-5-oxa-7-octenenitrile and Copolymer ##STR28##

A solution of 54.2 g (0.2 mole) of methyltriethylammonium-3-cyanotetrahydropropionate prepared as in Part A in 300 ml of diglyme was stirred at -15° to -10° while 14 g (0.21 mole) of carbonyl fluoride was added slowly. The mixture was stirred at -15° to -10° for 30 min and then at -10° to -5° for 30 min, after which 50.6 g (0.22 mole) of perfluoroallyl fluorosulfate was added. The mixture was stirred at -5° to 0° for an additional hour and then poured into 1.5 liters of cold water. The lower layer was washed with 500 ml of water, dried over CaSO₄, and distilled to give 30.2 g (47% from NCCF₂ CF₂ CO₂ CH₃) of perfluoro-5-oxa-7-octenenitrile, bp 80°-85°, identified by IR and GC.

15.8 g (0.049 mole) of NCCF₂ CF₂ CF₂ OCF₂ CF═CF₂, prepared as described above, and 20 ml of F-113 (1,1,2-trifluoro-1,2,2-trichloroethane) were mixed and cooled to 0°. 2 ml of 5% perfluoropropionyl peroxide in F-113 was added and the mixture was loaded into a 100 ml tube and pressured to 50 psi (345 kPa) at 20° with TFE. The temperature was raised to 40° and the pressure was increased to, and maintained at, 100 psi (689 kPa) with further TFE being added until reaction ceased after a period of about 6 hr. A total of 11.1 g (0.11 mole) of TFE was added.

37.5 g of moist white solid was recovered; after drying under vacuum to constant weight, 4.5 g of white polymer was obtained. Presence of pendant cyano groups in the polymer was confirmed by IR. 7.3 g (46%) of the starting cyanoolefin was recovered from the volatiles.

EXAMPLE 14 A. Methyltriethylammonium-3-azidotetrafluoropropionate ##STR29##

A mixture of 37.0 g (0.184 mole) of methyl-3-azidotetrafluoropropionate, prepared as in Example 9, 20.2 g (0.20 mole of triethylamine, and 50 ml of ether was stirred at 25°. A second layer slowly formed. The reaction was stopped after 24 days, at which time the second layer was not increasing in volume. Evaporation of volatiles under full pump vacuum left 54.9 g (99% of theory) of methyltriethylammonium 3-azidotetrafluoropropionate as a moist solid. IR(CHCl₃): 3020 (sat'd CH), 2170 (N₃), 1690 (CO₂), and 1250-1100 cm⁻¹ (CF). NMR (DMSO-d₆): ¹ H 3.31 (q, J_(HH) 7 Hz, 6H, CH₂), 2.93 (s, 3H, NCH₃), and 1.22 ppm (t, J_(HH) 7 Hz, 9H, CH₃); ¹⁹ F -90.8 (t, J_(FF) 6.3 Hz, 2F, CF₂ N₃) and -115.6 ppm (t, J_(FF) 6.3 Hz, 2F, CF₂ C═O).

B. Perfluoro-4-oxa-6-heptenyl azide ##STR30##

An impure sample of methyltriethylammonium-3-azido tetrafluoropropionate prepared as described above (54.9 g, about 0.18 mole) was dissolved in 300 ml of diglyme and stirred at -20° to -15° while 13.5 g (0.20 mole) of COF₂ was passed in slowly enough to be completely absorbed. The mixture was stirred at 0° for 1 hr., after which 46.0 g (0.20 mole) of perfluoroallyl fluorosulfate was added rapidly at -5° to 0°. Resulting solids were broken up and the mixture was stirred at -5° to 0° for 1.5 hr., at 0° to 5° for 1 hr., and then was poured into 1.5 liters of cold water. The organic layer was washed with 200 ml of cold water, dried over CaSO₄, and distilled to give 21.3 g (35% from N₃ CF₂ CF₂ CO₂ CH₃) of perfluoro-4-oxa-6-heptenyl azide, bp 59°-60° (110 mm, 14.6 kPa). IR (CCl₄): 2160 (N₃), 1790 (C═C), 1250-1100 cm⁻¹ (CF, C--O). NMR (CCl₄): ¹⁹ F -72.0 (d of d of t of d, J_(FF) 25.0, 14.0, 12.3, 7.3 Hz, 2F, OCF₂ ═), -84.3 (t of t of m, J_(FF) 12.3, 9 Hz, 2F, OCF₂ CF₂), -89.6 (t of m, J_(FF) 9 Hz, 2F, CF₂ N₃, -92.0 (d of d of t, J_(FF) 52.3, 39.1, 7.3 Hz, 1F, cis-CF₂ CF═CFF), -105.3 (d of d of t, J_(FF) 117.7, 52.3, 25.0 Hz, 1F, trans-CF₂ CF═CFF), -128.3 (broad s, 2F, CF₂), and -190.5 ppm (d of d of t of t, J_(FF) 117.7, 39.1, 14.0, 1.6 Hz, 1F, CF₂ CF═).

Anal. Calcd. for C₆ F₁₁ N₃ O: C, 21.25; N, 12.39. Found: C, 21.85; N, 12.86.

EXAMPLE 15 Copolymer of TFE and Perfluoro-4-oxa-6-heptenyl Azide

16.3 g (0.048 mole) of N₃ (CF₂)₃ OCF₂ CF═CF₂, prepared as in Example 14B, and 20 ml of F-113 (1,1,2-trifluoro-1,2,2-trichloroethane) were mixed and cooled to 0°. 2 ml of 5% perfluoropropionyl peroxide in F-113 was added and the mixture was loaded into a 100 ml tube and pressured to 100 psi (689 kPa) at 22° with TFE (ca. 30 g added). The temperature was raised to 40° (pressure 160 psi, 1103 kPa). After 6 min, pressure had fallen to 110 psi (758 kPa). The mixture was then heated to 72°. After 10 min, the temperature and pressure had dropped to 42° and 80 psi (551 kPa). The flask was then repressured with TFE to 210 psi (1447 kPa). The total amount of TFE added was 40 g. The flask was held at 40° for 2.5 hr. The pressure fell to 70 psi (482 kPa) within 1 hr. and then remained constant.

52.4 g of a moist white solid was recovered. Volatiles were removed under vacuum to constant weight (1.5 days). 17.9 g of a white copolymer of TFE and perfluoro-4-oxa-6-heptenyl azide was obtained. Presence of pendant azido groups on the polymer was confirmed by IR. 11.2 g (69%) of N₃ (CF₂)₃ OCF₂ CF═CF₂ was recovered from the volatiles.

EXAMPLE 16 Tetramethylammonium-3-azidotetrafluoropropionate

    N.sub.3 CF.sub.2 CF.sub.2 CO.sub.2 CH.sub.3 +N(CH.sub.3).sub.3 →N.sub.3 CF.sub.2 CF.sub.2 CO.sub.2.sup.- N.sup.+ (CH.sub.3).sub.4

Trimethylene (10.6 g, 0.18 mole) was distilled into a solution of 37.0 g (0.184 mole) of methyl 3-azidotetrafluoropropionate, prepared as in Example 9, in 100 ml of ether. Precipitation of product was accompanied by a small exotherm. The reaction was determined by gas chromatography to be nearly complete after 4 hr. The mixture was stirred overnight, then evaporated under vacuum until dry. The residue was 31.8 g (68%) of tetramethylammonium-3-azidotetrafluoropropionate, mp 144°-145° (dec.). IR (nujol): 2170 (N₃), 1680 (broad, CO₂ ⁻), and 1250-1100 cm⁻¹ (CF), NMR (DMSO-d₆): ¹ H 3,25 ppm (s, CH₃); ¹⁹ F -90.8 (t, J_(FF) 6.2 Hz, 2F, CF₂ N₃) and -115.8 ppm (t, J_(FF) 6.2 Hz, 2F, CF₂ C═O).

Anal. Calcd for C₇ H₁₂ F₄ N₄ O₂ : C, 32.31; H, 4.65; N, 21.53. Found: C, 32.23; H, 4.56; N, 21.30.

The propionate salt may be converted to a derivative or copolymer of the invention, e.g., as illustrated by Examples 14B and 15, above.

EXAMPLE 17 Sodium 3-methylthio-2,2,3,3-tetrafluoropropionate and the Methyl Ester ##STR31##

A slurry of 24 g (0.50 mole) of 50% NaH/mineral oil in 140 ml of dry dimethyl sulfoxide was stirred while 24 g (0.50 mole) of methyl mercaptan was distilled in over a 2 hr. period. The mixture was then stirred until gas evolution became very slow after which the mixture was allowed to stand overnight. The resulting mixture was a thick paste which was diluted with 50 ml of dimethyl sulfoxide and charged into a 400 ml metal tube along with 33 g (0.75 mole) of carbon dioxide and 50 g (0.50 mole) of tetrafluoroethylene. The tube was shaken at 100° for 4 hr. The resulting solution was treated with 69.3 g (0.55 mole) of dimethyl sulfate. After an initial exotherm (maximum temperature, 50°), the mixture was stirred for 3 hr. Product was then removed under vacuum and fractionated to afford 63.9 g (62%) of methyl 3-methylthio-2,2,3,3-tetrafluoropropionate, bp 53° (10 mm, 1.3 kPa), IR (neat): 3020, 2970, and 2860 (satd CH), 1780 (C═O), and 1250-1100 cm⁻¹ (C--F), ¹ H and ¹⁹ F NMR agreed with the assigned structure.

Anal. Calcd for C₅ H₆ F₄ O₂ S: C, 29.13; H, 2.93; F, 36.86. Found: C, 29.42; H, 3.07; F, 36.74.

EXAMPLE 18 Methyl 3-Dimethoxyphosphonyltetrafluoropropionate

To 106 g of a crude preparation of sodium 3-dimethylphosphonyltetrafluoropropionate, prepared as in Example 12, was added an excess, 229 g (1.5 mole), of POCl₃. The mixture was warmed to 60° C., resulting in an exothermic reaction. After the reaction had subsided, solids were removed by filtration and rinsed with CCl₄. The filtrate and rinsings were distilled to remove volatiles, leaving 56.7 g of a heavy oil. The oil was stirred overnight with 50 ml of methanol, and the methanol layer was separated and distilled to give 5.5 g of a liquid, bp 60°-66° (0.4 mm, 5.3×10⁻² kPa). NMR (CD₃ CN): 'H 3.98 (s, 3H, C(═O)OCH₃) and 3.90 ppm (d, J_(HP) 7 Hz, 6H, P--OCH₃) with bands for (CH₃ O)₃ P═O also present; 19_(F) -118.7 (t, J_(FF) 2.9 Hz, 2F, CF₂ C═O) and -121.5 ppm (d, J_(FF) 88.6 Hz, of t, J_(FF) 2.9 Hz, 2F, CF₂ --P. IR (neat) showed no P--OH or C--OH and indicated at mixture of (CH₃ O)₂ P(O)CF₂ CF₂ CO₂ CH₃ and (CH₃ O)₃ P═O.

EXAMPLE 19 3-Dichlorophosphonyltetrafluoropropionyl Chloride ##STR32##

A. A stirred suspension of 24.0 g (0.50 mole) of 50% NaH/mineral oil in 150 ml of dimethyl sulfoxide was treated portionwise with 55 g (0.50 mole) of dimethyl phosphite. When gas evolution ceased, the suspension of sodium dimethyl phosphite was charged into a 400-ml metal tube, after which 33 g (0.75 mole) of CO₂ and 50 g (0.50 mole) of tetrafluoroethylene was added at 13°. Reaction was carried out at 25° for 4 hours, then at 50° for 8 hours. The reaction mixture was stirred into a solution of 200 ml of concentrated H₂ SO₄ in 1 liter of water, and the resulting solution was extracted continuously with ether for 30 hr. Volatiles were removed from the extracts to produce 51 g of an oil, which was added to 416 g (2.0 moles) of phosphorous pentachloride. The mixture was heated slowly to reflux, at which point gas evolution substantially ceased. The residue was heated to 40° (1.6 mm, 2.1×10⁻¹ kPa) to transfer volatiles to a cold trap. Fractionation of the volatiles gave 5.7 g (4% yield from CF₂ ═CF₂) of crude 3-dichlorophosphonyltetrafluoropropionyl chloride, bp 90°-115° (100 mm, 13.3 kPa). IR (CCl₄): 1800 (C═O), 1310 (P═O), and 1250-1100 cm⁻¹ (CF).NMR(CCl₄): ¹⁹ F -110.6 (m, 2F, CF₂ C═O) and -116.0 ppm (d, J_(FP) 113 Hz, of t, J_(FF) 2.3 Hz, 2F, CF₂ --P). Mass spec: m/e 245(M⁺ --Cl), 217(M⁺ --COCl), 117(POCl₂ ⁺), 113(CLCOCF₂ ⁺), 100(C₂ F₄ ⁺), and 63(COCl.sup. +) with the expected Cl isotope peaks present. The main impurity was shown to be CH₃ SCCl₃.

B. The reaction of Part A was carried out in tetrahydrofuran at 50°-100°. Evaporation of solvent, treatment of the residue with PCl₅, and fractionation gave 4.3 g (3%) of 3-dichlorophosphonyltetrafluoropropionyl chloride, bp 47°-49° (10 mm, 1.3 kPa).

C. Reaction of excess sodium diethyl phosphite in dimethyl sulfoxide with CO₂ and tetrafluoroethylene at 50°-100° led, after the treatment with PCl₅, to a 14% yield of 3-dichlorophosphonyltetrafluoropropionyl chloride, bp 59°-69° (20 mm, 2.6 kPa).

EXAMPLE 20 A. 3-Azido-2-heptafluoropropoxytrifluoropropionyl Fluoride and Adducts with Hexafluoropropene Oxide ##STR33##

Reaction of 26.0 g (0.40 mole) of sodium azide, 33 g (0.75 mole) of carbon dioxide, and 106 g (0.40 mole) of perfluoro(propyl vinyl ether) in dimethyl sulfoxide was carried out in a 400 ml metal tube at 25°. The reaction mixture was poured into a solution of 250 ml of concentrated sulfuric acid in 900 ml of water. Continuous extraction with ether and evaporation of the extracts afforded 140 g of crude 3-azido-2-heptafluoropropoxytrifluoropropionic acid hydrate. This acid was reacted in a 1 L metal tube under autogenous pressure with 150 g (1.39 moles) of SF₄ and 84 g (2.0 moles) of NaF in 80 ml of CFCl₂ CF₂ Cl at 80° for 12 hr. Distillation gave 82.9 g (58% overall yield) of 3-azido-2-heptafluoropropoxytrifluoropropionyl fluoride, bp 51°-53° (100 mm, 13.3 kPa). IR (CCl₄): 2150 (N₃), 1875 (COF), and 1300-1100 cm⁻¹ (CF, C--O). NMR (CCl₄): .sup. 19 F 26.0 (p, J_(FF) 6 Hz, 1F, COF), -82.0 (t, J_(FF) 7.5 Hz, 3F, CF₃), -129.3 (d of p, J_(FF) 20, 6 Hz, 1F, CF), and -130.2 ppm (s, 2F, CF₂) with an AB pattern for CF₂ O at -7417 and -7567 Hz (d of q, J_(FF) 20, 7.5 Hz, 1F) and -8181 and -8332 Hz (q, J_(FF) 7.5 Hz, 1F), and for CF₂ N₃ at -8244 and -8430 Hz (t, J_(FF) 5.5 Hz, 1F) and -8465 and -8651 Hz (t, J_(FF) 6.2 Hz, 1F).

B ##STR34##

The acid fluoride (72 g; 0.20 mol) prepared in Part A was added to a suspension of 10.0 g (0.17 mole) of flame-dried KF and 100 ml of 9:1 adiponitrile/tetraglyme. The system was evacuated and an atmosphere of pure hexafluoropropene was introduced. The mixture was stirred while 67 g (0.40 mole) on hexafluoropropene epoxide was added on demand at 1 atm (1.0×10² kPa) over a period of 2 hr. The temperature rose slowly from 20° to 42°. Distillation up to bp 50° (0.3 mm, 4.0×10⁻² kPa) afforded 135.9 g of volatiles, which were then fractionated. The 1:1 adduct (n=0) was obtained as 35.0 g (34%) of oil, bp 46°-47.5° (9.5 mm, 1.3 kPa), IR (neat): 2170 (N₃), 1890 (COF), and 1300-1100 cm⁻¹ (CF, C--O). The ¹⁹ F NMR spectrum was compatible with N₃ CF₂ CF(OCF₂ CF₂ CF₃)CF₂ OCF(CF₃)COF.

Anal. Calcd. for C₉ F₁₇ N₃ O₃ : C, 20.74; N, 8.06. Found: C, 20.47; N, 8.14.

The 2:1 adduct (n=1) was obtained as 5.2 g (4%) of oil, bp 43°-46° (1.2 mm, 1.6×10⁻¹ kPa). IR (neat): 2170(N₃), 1890 (COF), and 1300-1100 cm⁻¹ (CF, C--O). The ¹⁹ F NMR spectrum was compatible with N₃ CF₂ CF(OCF₂ CF₂ CF₃)CF₂ OCF(CF₃)COF.

Anal. Calcd. for C₁₂ F₂₃ N₃ O₄ : C, 20.98; N, 6.12. Found: C, 21.26; N, 6.39.

EXAMPLE 21 9-Azido-8-heptafluoropropoxy-5-trifluoromethylundecafluoro-3,6-dioxanonene-1 ##STR35##

The 2:1 adduct (n=1)(18.0 g, 0.026 mole) prepared as in Example 20 was stirred with 50 ml of water while aqueous NaOH was added to a phenolphthalein end-point. The bulk of the volatiles were removed in a stream of air, and the product salt was dried at 140° (0.1 mm, 1.3×10⁻² kPa). Pyrolysis of the salt was carried out at 220°-235° over a 5 hr period, during which time the pressure went from 1.8 mm (2.4×10⁻¹ kPa) to 0.1 mm (1.3×10⁻² kPa). The crude product, which was collected in a cold trap, was washed with water, dried over calcium sulfate, and fractionated to give 7.7 g (48%) of the trifluorovinyl ether, bp 64°-68° (9.5 mm, 1.3 kPa). IR (neat): 2150 (N₃), 1835 (C═C), and 1300-1100 cm⁻¹ (CF, C═O).

Anal. Calcd. for C₁₁ F₂₁ N₃ O₃ : C, 21, 27; N, 6.76. Found: C, 21.20; N, 6.88.

EXAMPLE 22 Copolymer of TFE and N₃ CF₂ CF(OCF₂ CF₂ CF₃)CF₂ OCF(CF₃)CF₂ OCF═CF₂

A cold (0°) solution of 7.3 g (0.012 mole) of the trifluorovinyl ether prepared in Example 21, 3 ml of 3% perfluoropropionyl peroxide in CFCl₂ CF₂ Cl, and 20 ml of CFCl₂ CF₂ Cl was loaded into a 100-ml metal tube and shaken at 25°-30° while 25 g (0.25 mole) of tetrafluoroethylene was added in portions. The reaction was then run at 40° for 2 hr. The polymer produced was suspended twice in CFCl₂ CF₂ Cl and filtered, then dried under high vacuum to give 3.3 g of the title copolymer as a white solid. IR (nujol): 2150 cm⁻¹ band for N₃ present.

EXAMPLE 23 A. Sodium 3-Methylsulfonyltetrafluoropropionate, 3-Methylsulfonyltetrafluoropropionic Acid and the Methyl Ester ##STR36##

NaSCH₃ was prepared by distilling 24 g (0.50 mol) of methyl mercaptan into a stirred suspension of 24 g (0.50 mol) of 50% NaH/mineral oil in 170 ml of dimethyl sulfoxide over a 2-hr period. The mixture was charged into a 400-ml tube with 27 g (0.6 mol) of CD₂ and 50 g (0.50 mol) of tetrafluoroethylene and shaken at 50° for 8 hrs. The reaction mixture was poured into a cold solution of 300 ml of concentrated HCl in 1 liter of water, and the resulting mixture was extracted continuously with ether. Removal of volatiles from the extracts at 5 mm gave 94.6 g of 3-methylthiotetrafluoropropionic acid. This acid was stirred at 85° to 95° while a mixture of 125 ml (about 1.2 mol) of 30% H₂ O₂ and 75 ml of acetic acid was added dropwise over 2 hrs. The mixture was stirred at 90° for 3 hrs more, then evacuated at full pump to remove volatiles.

The residual oil was extracted with pentane to remove mineral oil, than either treated with aqueous NaOH to reform the sodium salt, or esterified. The methyl ester was prepared by refluxing the acid 1 hr with 500 ml of methanol and 2 ml of concentrated HCl. Chloroform (500 ml) was added, the mixture was distilled to a high temperature of 63°. Another 500 ml of methanol and 1 ml of concentrated HCl were added, and the esterification allowed to proceed at 25° for 3 days. Chloroform (500 ml) was added and the mixture was fractionated to give 64.0 g (54% from TFE) of methyl 3-methylsulfonyltetrafluoropropionate, bp 75° (1.2 mm) IR (neat): 3020, 2970, 2940 and 2860 (sat'd CH) 1780 (C═O) 1355 (SO₂) and 1250-1100 cm⁻¹ (CF, C--O, SO₂). NMR(CDCl₃): H 3.99 (s, 3H, CH₃ O) and 3.16 ppm (t of t, J_(HF) 1.8, 0.7 Hz, 3H, CH₃ SO₂); ¹⁹ F-116.4 (t of t, J_(FF) 3.8 Hz, of t, J_(HF) 2 Hz, 2F, CF₂ SO₂) and -117.5 ppm (t, J_(FF) 3.8 Hz, 2F, CF₂ C═O). Anal. Calcd. for C₅ H₆ F₄ O₄ S: C, 25.22; H, 2.54. Found: C, 25.49; H, 2.98.

B. Tetramethylammonium 3-Methylsulfonyltetrafluoropropionate

Trimethylamine (12.4 g, 0.21 mol) was distilled into a stirred solution of 47.8 g (0.20 mol) of methyl 3-methylsulfonyltetrafluoropropionate in 100 ml of ether. The mixture was stirred overnight, filtered under nitrogen, and the solid dried under vacuum. There was thus obtained 52.1 g (88%) of tetramethylammonium 3-methylsulfonyltetrafluoropropionate, mp 98° to 100°, as deliquescent crystals. NMR (DMSO-d₆): ¹ H 3.40 (t, J_(HF) 2 Hz, 3H, CH₃ SO₂) and 3.17 ppm (s, 12H, (CH₃)₄ N⁺); ¹⁹ F-112.3 (t, J_(FF) 3.0 Hz, 2F, CF₂ C═O) and -114.4 ppm (T, J_(FF) 3.0 Hz, of m, 2F, CF₂ SO₂). Anal. Calcd. for C₈ H₁₅ F₄ NO₄ S: C, 32.32; H, 5.09; N, 4.7. Found: C, 32.20; H, 5.17; N, 4.44. 

The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined as follows:
 1. The process for preparing a β-substituted fluoropropionate salt of the formula

    (XCF.sub.2 CFYCO.sub.2).sub.n M

comprising reacting (i) a fluoroolefin having the formula CF₂ ═CFY, (ii) a salt having the formula MX_(n), and (iii) CO₂, in a polar aprotic solvent at a temperature of about -20° C. to 150° C., wherein X, the β-substituent is --CN, --N₃, --SR or --PO(OR')₂ ; R is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or aryl or alkaryl having no more than 10 carbon atoms;R' is --CH₃, --C₂ H₅, --CH₂ CF₃, or --CH₂ CF₂ CF₂ H; Y is --Cl, --F, --Br or --OR_(F) except that when X is --CN, Y is --Cl, --F or --Br; R_(F) is perfluoroalkyl, branched or linear, having 1-10 carbon atoms or such perfluoroalkyl having one or more carbon-carbon links interrupted by ether oxygen; M is alkali metal, alkaline earth metal or --NR¹ R² R³ R⁴, wherein each of R¹, R², R³ and R⁴ is independently , C₁₋₆ linear alkyl, allyl or benzyl; and n is the valence of M and is 1 or
 2. 2. The process of claim 1 wherein the reaction is carried out at 0° C. to 100° C.
 3. The process of claim 1 wherein the reaction pressure is 100 psi (6.9×10² kPa) to 2000 psi (13.8×10³ kPa).
 4. The process of claim 1 wherein the solvent is a glyme or dimethyl sulfoxide.
 5. A process for preparing the fluorocarbon having the formula ##STR37## wherein X is --N₃, --SR, --SO₂ R, PO(OR')₂ or --CN;R is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or aryl or alkaryl having no more than 10 carbon atoms; R' is --CH₃, --C₂ H₅, --CH₂ CF₃, or --CH₂ CF₂ CF₂ H; Y is --Cl, --F, --Br or --OR_(F) except that when X is --CN, Y is --Cl, --F or --Br; R_(F) is perfluoroalkyl, branched or linear, having 1-10 carbon atoms or such perfluoroalkyl having one or more carbon-carbon links interrupted by ether oxygen; and 1 is 0 or 1 to 5, m is 0 to 6,by reacting perfluoroallylfluorosulfate with a salt having the formula

    (XCF.sub.2 CFYCO.sub.2).sub.n M

wherein X is --CN, --N₃, --SR, SO₂ R, or --PO(OR')₂ ; R is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or aryl or alkaryl having no more than 10 carbon atoms; R' is --CH₃, --C₂ H₅, --CH₂ CF₃ or --CH₂ CF₂ CF₂ H; and Y is --Cl, --F, --Br or --OR_(F) except that when X is --CN, Y is --Cl, --F or --Br; R_(F) is perfluoroalkyl, branched or linear, having 1-10 carbon atoms or such perfluoroalkyl having one or more carbon-carbon links interrupted by ether oxygen; M is alkali metal, alkaline earth metal or --NR¹ R² R³ R⁴, wherein each of R¹, R², R³ and R⁴ is, independently, C₁₋₆ linear alkyl, allyl or benzyl; and n is the valence of M and is 1 or
 2. 6. A process for preparing the β-substituted fluoropropionate salt having the formula XCF₂ CFYCO₂ NR¹ R² R³ R⁴ consisting essentially of reacting a fluoropropionate ester of the formula XCF₂ CFYCO₂ R⁴ with a tertiary amine, NR¹ R² R³, in the absence of solvent or in the pressure of an aprotic solvent, whereinX is --N₃, --SR or --CN; R is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or aryl or alkaryl having no more than 10 carbon atoms; Y is --Cl, --F, --Br or --OR_(F) except that when Z is --CN, Y is --Cl, --F or --Br; R_(F) is perfluoroalkyl, branched or linear, having 1-10 carbon atoms or such perfluoroalkyl having one or more carbon-carbon links interrupted by ether oxygen; and each of R¹, R², R³ and R⁴ is, independently, C₁₋₆ linear alkyl, allyl or benzyl.
 7. The process of claim 6 wherein Y is --F.
 8. The process of claim 7 wherein R¹ -R⁴ are linear alkyl.
 9. The process of claim 7 wherein each of R¹, R², R³, and R⁴ is methyl.
 10. The process of claim 5 comprising reacting the salt first with carbonyl fluoride and then with perfluoroallylfluorosulfate.
 11. The process of claim 10 comprising preparing the salt in situ by reacting the ester, XCF₂ CFYCO₂ R⁴ with the tertiary amine, NR¹ R² R³.
 12. The process for preparing a fluorocarbon of the formula

    X'CF.sub.2 CFYZ

wherein X' is PO(OR')₂, SR, --N₃ or --CN, and wherein Z is ##STR38## which comprises reacting a β-substituted fluoropropionate salt having the formula (XCF₂ CFYCO₂)_(n) M; wherein X is --CN, --N₃, --SR or --PO(OR')₂ ; R is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or aryl or alkaryl having no more than 10 carbon atoms; R' is --CH₃, --C₂ H₅, --CH₂ CF₃ or --CH₂ CF₂ CF₂ H; and Y is --Cl, --F, --Br or --OR_(F) except that when X is --CN, Y is --Cl, --F or --Br; R_(F) is perfluoroalkyl, branched or linear, having 1-10 carbon atoms or such perfluoroalkyl having one or more carbon-carbon links interrupted by ether oxygen; M is alkali metal, alkaline earth metal or --NR¹ R² R³ R⁴, wherein each of R¹, R², R³ and R⁴ is, independently, C₁₋₆ linear alkyl, allyl or benzyl; m is 1 to 6; and n is the valence of M and is 1 or 2; first with carbonyl fluoride and then with hexafluoropropene oxide.
 13. The process of claim 12 comprising preparing the salt in situ by reacting the ester, XCF₂ CFYCO₂ R⁴, with the tertiary amine, NR¹ R² R³.
 14. A process for preparing ##STR39## which comprises pyrolyzing the fluorocarbon ##STR40## in an aprotic solvent in the presence of a carbamate, phosphate, sulfite or sulfate salt of an alkali or alkaline earth metal;wherein: X' is --N₃, --PO(OR')₂, --P(O)Cl₂ and --P(O)F₂ ; R' is --CH₃, --C₂ H₅ or --CH₂ CF₃ ; Y is --Cl, --F, --Br or OR_(F) ; R_(F) is perfluoroalkyl, branched or linear, having 1 to 10 carbon atoms or such perfluoroalkyl having one or more carbon-carbon links interrupted by ether oxygen; q is 0 or 1 to 5, and m is 0 or 1 to
 6. 15. A process for preparing ##STR41## which comprises pyrolyzing the fluorocarbon ##STR42## wherein: X' is --N₃, --PO(OR')₂, --P(O)Cl₂ and --P(O)F₂ ;R' is --CH₃, --C₂ H₅ or --CH₂ CF₃ ; Y is --Cl, --F, --Br or OR_(F) ; R_(F) is perfluoroalkyl, branched or linear, having 1 to 10 carbon atoms or such perfluoroalkyl having one or more carbon-carbon links interrupted by ether oxygen; q is 0 or 1 to 5, m is 0 or 1 to 6, p is 1 to 6; M is an alkali or alkaline earth metal or NR¹ R² R³ R⁴ where each of R¹, R², R³ and R⁴ is, independently, C₁ to 6 linear alkyl, allyl or benzyl; and n is the valence of M and is 1 or
 2. 16. A process for preparing ##STR43## comprising reacting ##STR44## with perfluoroallylfluorosulfate or perfluoroallylchloride in the presence of fluoride ions;wherein: X' is --N₃, --PO(OR')₂, --P(O)Cl₂ and --P(O)F₂ ; R' is --CH₃, --C₂ H₅ or --CH₂ CF₃ ; Y is --Cl, --F, --Br or OR_(F) ; R_(F) is perfluoroalkyl, branched or linear, having 1 to 10 carbon atoms or such perfluoroalkyl having one or more carbon-carbon links interrupted by ether oxygen; m is 0 or 1 to
 6. 